PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. – Tuesday was arrival and practice day at the Stadium Course for many of the world's best golfers, but the big draw was Military Appreciation Day and a concert by country music singer-songwriter Luke Combs.
All career military (active duty, reserve, military retirees and dependents) receive complimentary admission to the tournament all week long and an exclusive hospitality tent, The Patriots' Outpost, is set up near the tee at No. 16.
The Military Appreciation Day Ceremony began on the 17th hole at 5:30 p.m. featuring Jim Furyk, followed at 6 p.m. by the Combs performance.
Luke Combs offered a special thank you to military men and women before going on stage.
"I can't imagine making that sacrifice," Combs said. "I just want to thank them for everything they do."
Henry Seels, an Army veteran, brought his granddaughter. He said it's a special bond between everyone in the Birdies for the Brave Outpost, and he's thankful The Players is welcoming the military community.
"You get to see some people that really need help," Seels said. "Some of them are in a bad situation, but it's getting better, and we have things like this - it's great for them."
Both the ceremony and the concert were no cost to any Tuesday ticket holder. Stadium passes for non-military on Tuesday were $25.
Other activities throughout the day included pageantry by military personnel, a flyover by the 125th Fighter Wing, Florida Air National Guard and a performance of the national anthem.